The 2023 Infiniti QX80 is one of the most unusual luxury SUVs you can buy today because it refuses to follow the industry’s latest trends. While competitors have spent the last several years filling their cabins with massive curved displays, replacing physical controls with touch-sensitive panels, and introducing smaller turbocharged engines, Infiniti continues to build its flagship SUV around a formula that feels increasingly rare in the luxury segment.
At its core, the QX80 remains a traditional body-on-frame SUV powered by a naturally aspirated V8 engine. That combination alone separates it from many modern rivals. Vehicles such as the Lincoln Navigator, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Cadillac Escalade have evolved dramatically over the years, embracing newer architectures, more sophisticated suspensions, and increasingly digital cabin experiences. The Infiniti takes a different path. It focuses on familiarity, simplicity, and proven hardware.
That approach creates an interesting question for modern luxury SUV buyers. Is an older design necessarily a disadvantage? For some shoppers, the answer will be yes. The QX80 cannot match the newest competitors when it comes to cutting-edge technology, chassis sophistication, or overall modernization. Yet there remains a sizable group of buyers who prefer straightforward controls, a naturally aspirated V8, and a vehicle that feels substantial rather than overly complicated.
The QX80’s age is impossible to ignore, but age alone does not determine value. Infiniti has spent years refining this platform, improving ride quality, updating the interior, expanding the technology package, and adding features that help the SUV remain competitive despite its underlying architecture. The result is a vehicle that feels more polished than many people expect.
There is also the matter of pricing. Full-size luxury SUVs have become remarkably expensive. It is no longer unusual to see competitors approaching or exceeding six figures once options are added. The QX80 enters the conversation from a noticeably lower starting point while still offering genuine luxury credentials, impressive towing capability, three rows of seating, and the commanding presence buyers expect from a flagship SUV.
That combination ultimately defines the QX80. It is not trying to be the most advanced luxury SUV on the market. Instead, it appeals to buyers who appreciate traditional luxury, proven mechanical components, V8 power, and a comfortable long-distance driving experience. In an industry obsessed with constant reinvention, that old-school character may be exactly what some luxury SUV shoppers are looking for.
Our Take
The 2023 Infiniti QX80 is no longer the segment benchmark, but it remains surprisingly appealing for buyers who value comfort, space, V8 power, and simplicity over flashy technology. Its age is visible in several areas, particularly when compared with newer rivals, yet it compensates with a spacious cabin, strong towing capability, impressive highway comfort, and a price advantage that becomes increasingly important in the full-size luxury SUV segment.
For buyers seeking the newest technology or the sharpest driving experience, better alternatives exist. For buyers who want a traditional luxury SUV that feels solid, comfortable, and genuinely capable, the QX80 continues to make a convincing case for itself.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Powerful and smooth naturally aspirated V8 engine
- Excellent towing capability for a luxury SUV
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
- Physical controls remain easy to use while driving
- Strong value compared with many full-size luxury rivals
- Comfortable highway ride and long-distance refinement
Cons
- Aging platform compared with newer competitors
- Fuel economy is among the lowest in the segment
- Handling feels less sophisticated than newer rivals
- Third-row cargo space is limited
- Interior technology no longer leads the class
- Some competitors offer more modern safety and driver-assistance systems
What’s New for 2023
Infiniti chose evolution rather than reinvention for the 2023 QX80. The SUV receives a handful of equipment updates, including the addition of Infiniti Premium Care, which covers scheduled maintenance for three years, helping reduce ownership costs during the early years of ownership. Amazon Alexa integration also joins the feature list, while lane-departure alerts now include haptic steering-wheel feedback. Beyond those updates, the QX80 remains fundamentally unchanged, continuing with the same V8 powertrain, body-on-frame construction, and luxury-focused character that have defined the model in recent years.
Driving Experience
The first thing that stands out about the QX80 is that it does not drive like a modern crossover pretending to be an SUV. It feels like a genuine full-size luxury SUV, and whether that is a strength or weakness depends largely on what you expect from a vehicle of this type.
Many competitors have moved toward lighter-feeling platforms and more car-like behavior. The Infiniti takes a different approach. From the driver’s seat, there is an unmistakable sense of mass and presence. You sit high above traffic, visibility is commanding, and the vehicle communicates its size in a way that some modern luxury SUVs actively try to hide. Rather than feeling cumbersome, however, the QX80 often feels reassuringly substantial.
The steering is light enough for daily driving but never particularly communicative. Drivers coming from performance-oriented SUVs such as the BMW X7 or certain versions of the Acura MDX may find it somewhat isolated. Yet that isolation becomes one of the vehicle’s strengths during long-distance travel. Hours behind the wheel rarely become tiring because the QX80 never asks much of its driver. It simply settles into a comfortable rhythm and covers miles effortlessly.
Highway refinement remains one of the Infiniti’s strongest qualities. The suspension does an impressive job controlling body motions despite the vehicle’s size, and the cabin remains remarkably quiet at cruising speeds. Wind noise is subdued, road imperfections are filtered effectively, and passengers are largely insulated from the outside world. This relaxed character feels increasingly rare in an era where many luxury SUVs prioritize sportier handling at the expense of comfort.
The naturally aspirated V8 also plays an important role in shaping the experience. Unlike the turbocharged engines found throughout much of the segment, power delivery feels linear and predictable. There is no waiting for boost to build, no abrupt surge of torque, and no complicated hybrid system attempting to blend multiple power sources. Press the accelerator and the engine responds immediately with smooth, effortless thrust.
Of course, age reveals itself in certain situations. Tight corners remind you that this is a large body-on-frame SUV rather than a sophisticated luxury crossover. The QX80 leans noticeably when pushed, and enthusiastic driving quickly exposes the limits of its chassis. Buyers seeking sharp handling or athletic responses will find stronger alternatives elsewhere.
Fortunately, that is not what the QX80 was built to do. This vehicle exists to transport families comfortably, tow substantial loads confidently, and make long journeys feel shorter than they actually are. Judged by those standards, it remains surprisingly effective even after years on the market.
Performance & Towing Capability
The 5.6-liter V8 has become something of an endangered species in today’s luxury SUV market, which makes its continued presence under the QX80’s hood all the more noteworthy. Producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, the engine may not dominate comparison charts filled with turbocharged competitors, but numbers alone fail to capture its appeal.
What makes this powertrain satisfying is its character. Luxury SUVs increasingly rely on smaller turbocharged engines that generate impressive output figures while sacrificing some of the smoothness and immediacy that larger naturally aspirated engines naturally provide. The Infiniti goes the opposite direction. Its V8 delivers power progressively and confidently, creating a sense of effortless performance that suits the vehicle’s personality perfectly.
Acceleration is more than adequate for a vehicle of this size. The QX80 moves away from traffic lights with confidence, merges onto highways without hesitation, and has no trouble maintaining speed even when loaded with passengers and cargo. It never feels particularly quick by modern luxury SUV standards, but it rarely feels strained either.
The nine-speed automatic transmission generally complements the engine well. Shifts occur smoothly in normal driving, and the gearbox does a respectable job keeping the V8 within its powerband without constantly hunting for gears. Most owners will likely forget about the transmission altogether, which is often the highest compliment for a luxury vehicle.
Where the QX80 truly separates itself from many luxury competitors is towing. Properly equipped models can pull up to 8,500 pounds, placing the Infiniti among the more capable luxury SUVs in its class. That capability allows owners to tow large boats, substantial travel trailers, and heavy recreational equipment without stepping into the world of heavy-duty trucks. For buyers who regularly tow, that strength alone may justify serious consideration.
This combination of traditional V8 power, smooth operation, and genuine towing capability reinforces what makes the QX80 unique. It may not represent the future of luxury SUVs, but it remains highly effective at the tasks many owners still care about most.
Comfort, Interior & Everyday Luxury
If the QX80 has a single area that best explains why it has remained relevant for so long, it is the cabin. While newer competitors may offer larger screens, flashier graphics, or more advanced technology, the Infiniti continues to excel at something that matters just as much in a luxury SUV: making occupants feel comfortable from the moment they step inside.
The seating immediately sets the tone. The front seats are wide, supportive, and designed with long-distance travel in mind rather than aggressive cornering. Unlike some modern luxury vehicles that prioritize sporty bolstering, the QX80 focuses on reducing fatigue over hundreds of miles. The result is a vehicle that feels particularly well suited to family road trips and extended highway journeys.
The second row is equally impressive. Adults have little reason to complain about available space, and the elevated seating position provides a commanding view outward that many passengers appreciate. Depending on trim level, buyers can choose between a traditional bench configuration or captain’s chairs that create a more premium atmosphere while improving access to the third row.
The third row itself remains one of the stronger offerings in the segment. Many luxury SUVs advertise three rows but treat the final row as an occasional-use area suitable only for children. The QX80 does a better job than most at accommodating adults when necessary. It is not limousine-like, but it is genuinely usable, which becomes increasingly important for large families.
Material quality remains competitive despite the vehicle’s age. Soft-touch surfaces appear throughout the cabin, leather upholstery feels appropriately upscale, and the overall presentation avoids the cost-cutting shortcuts that often become obvious in large SUVs. Some competitors undoubtedly feel more modern, but the Infiniti still feels expensive in the ways that matter most.
What ultimately separates the QX80 from many rivals is its sense of occasion. Sitting behind the wheel feels different from driving a typical crossover. The high seating position, expansive visibility, substantial dimensions, and traditional luxury-SUV character create an experience that feels closer to a flagship vehicle than many newer competitors that have become increasingly car-like in their behavior.
Technology & Infotainment
Technology is one of the few areas where the QX80 clearly shows its age, though Infiniti has worked hard to keep the vehicle competitive. The 12.3-inch touchscreen introduced during the recent update significantly improved the cabin experience and brought the infotainment system much closer to modern expectations.
The display itself is large, clear, and reasonably responsive. Wireless Apple CarPlay support is particularly valuable because it allows drivers to bypass much of the factory software and rely on familiar smartphone interfaces. Android users also have access to smartphone integration, helping ensure the vehicle remains relevant despite its older architecture.
Fortunately, Infiniti resisted the temptation to eliminate physical controls. Climate adjustments, audio functions, and commonly used settings remain easy to access without digging through multiple menus. This may seem old-fashioned compared with some competitors, but it becomes an advantage during daily driving when simple tasks can be completed without taking attention away from the road.
Higher trims add features such as premium audio systems, navigation upgrades, and additional convenience technology, though buyers expecting the digital sophistication of a Cadillac Escalade, BMW X7, or Mercedes-Benz GLS should adjust their expectations accordingly. The Infiniti’s technology package is competent and user-friendly rather than revolutionary.
In many ways, that philosophy mirrors the vehicle itself. The QX80 is not attempting to redefine luxury technology. Instead, it provides the features most owners actually use while avoiding unnecessary complexity. Some buyers will see that as a limitation. Others may view it as a refreshing alternative to increasingly complicated infotainment systems.
Fuel Economy
The biggest compromise associated with the QX80’s traditional V8 formula is fuel economy. While competitors increasingly rely on turbocharged six-cylinder engines, hybrid systems, and more advanced powertrain technologies, Infiniti continues to offer a naturally aspirated V8 that prioritizes smoothness and capability over efficiency.
EPA estimates place the QX80 near the bottom of the luxury SUV segment in terms of fuel economy, which should not come as a surprise given its size, weight, body-on-frame construction, and large-displacement engine. Buyers considering the Infiniti primarily because of its V8 character must accept that frequent visits to the fuel station are simply part of the ownership experience.
The upside is consistency. The engine rarely feels strained, towing capability remains impressive, and highway cruising requires very little effort. Many owners will gladly accept higher fuel consumption in exchange for the smooth and relaxed character that the V8 provides.
Ultimately, fuel economy is unlikely to be a deciding factor for most QX80 buyers. Anyone prioritizing efficiency above all else will almost certainly choose a different vehicle long before reaching an Infiniti showroom. The QX80 appeals to a different audience, one that values comfort, capability, and traditional luxury more than maximizing miles per gallon.
Practicality & Cargo Space
A vehicle the size of the QX80 is expected to offer meaningful practicality, and for the most part, it delivers. Families purchasing a full-size luxury SUV are not simply looking for premium materials and comfortable seats. They also need enough room for luggage, sports equipment, grocery runs, airport pickups, and everything else that comes with daily life.
Behind the third row, cargo capacity is adequate rather than exceptional. Some newer rivals have become more efficient at packaging their interiors and can offer slightly more usable space when all seats are occupied. However, the Infiniti remains perfectly capable of handling the needs of a typical family. A few suitcases, backpacks, or shopping bags can be accommodated without difficulty.
The real advantage appears when the third row is folded. The cargo area expands significantly, transforming the QX80 into a genuinely useful hauler for larger items. The wide opening and relatively straightforward load floor make it easier to handle bulky cargo than some luxury SUVs that prioritize style over utility.
Storage throughout the cabin is equally thoughtful. Large door pockets, numerous cupholders, center-console storage, and additional compartments help keep personal items organized. These details rarely receive attention in comparison tests, yet they play a major role in how convenient a vehicle feels during everyday ownership.
Safety & Driver Assistance
The QX80 may be one of the oldest vehicles in its segment, but Infiniti has continued updating its safety technology to help it remain competitive. A comprehensive collection of driver-assistance features is available, including Forward Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Blind Spot Intervention, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Intelligent Cruise Control.
One of the strengths of the system is that it generally operates in the background rather than constantly drawing attention to itself. Some modern vehicles bombard drivers with alerts, warnings, and notifications. Infiniti’s approach feels more restrained, stepping in when needed without making the driver feel disconnected from the vehicle.
The addition of steering-wheel vibration feedback for lane-departure alerts further improves the ownership experience because it provides a warning that is noticeable without being distracting. Combined with the QX80’s elevated driving position and excellent outward visibility, these systems help make the large SUV feel easier to manage than its size might initially suggest.
While some competitors now offer more advanced semi-autonomous driving technologies, the Infiniti still provides the features most buyers genuinely use every day. More importantly, those features are straightforward and easy to understand, which fits the vehicle’s overall philosophy of prioritizing usability over complexity.
Competitors Worth Considering
The luxury full-size SUV segment has changed dramatically over the last several years, which means the QX80 now faces some of the strongest competition it has ever encountered.
The Cadillac Escalade remains one of the most recognizable names in the segment and arguably the benchmark when it comes to interior technology. Its massive displays, premium cabin presentation, and strong road presence make it difficult to ignore. Buyers who prioritize cutting-edge technology and a more contemporary luxury experience will likely find the Escalade more appealing.
The Lincoln Navigator takes a different approach. Rather than overwhelming occupants with technology, it focuses on comfort, refinement, and effortless power. In many ways, it targets the same buyers as the Infiniti but executes the formula using a newer platform and a more modern cabin. The Navigator feels noticeably newer, though it also commands a significantly higher price.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer appeals to shoppers who want luxury without sacrificing utility. It offers a spacious interior, impressive towing capability, and a commanding presence that rivals anything in the class. For buyers who regularly tow or need substantial passenger and cargo capacity, the Jeep deserves serious consideration.
Lexus enters the conversation with the GX and LX. The GX provides legendary durability and off-road capability, while the LX combines Toyota Land Cruiser engineering with a luxury-focused presentation. Buyers prioritizing long-term reliability often find themselves drawn toward Lexus products, even if they come with their own compromises.
What ultimately keeps the QX80 relevant is value. It may not lead the segment in technology, performance, or modernization, but it frequently undercuts many competitors while still delivering genuine luxury, V8 power, three usable rows, and substantial towing capability. For buyers who appreciate those qualities, the Infiniti remains easier to justify than many people expect.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
The Luxe trim strikes the best balance in the 2023 Infiniti QX80 lineup because it delivers the features most buyers actually care about without pushing the price into territory occupied by significantly newer competitors.
While the entry-level Sensory trim is already well equipped, the Luxe adds meaningful upgrades that enhance the ownership experience without dramatically increasing the overall cost. Buyers gain additional convenience features, upgraded interior appointments, and a more premium atmosphere while still benefiting from the same V8 powertrain, spacious cabin, and towing capability found throughout the lineup.
The top-tier Autograph model is unquestionably impressive. Its quilted semi-aniline leather, upgraded interior materials, and exclusive luxury touches create the most upscale version of the QX80 experience. However, its pricing begins to overlap with newer and more technologically advanced rivals such as the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Jeep Grand Wagoneer. At that point, the value advantage that helps define the Infiniti starts to diminish.
For most buyers, the Luxe trim captures everything that makes the QX80 appealing. It delivers traditional luxury, strong comfort, impressive capability, and excellent long-distance refinement without forcing owners to spend luxury-flagship money.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2023 Infiniti QX80 is a reminder that newer is not always better.
On paper, it is easy to dismiss. The platform is older than most competitors, fuel economy trails nearly every major rival, and the cabin technology no longer feels cutting-edge. Luxury SUV buyers who judge vehicles primarily by touchscreen size, digital features, or the newest engineering innovations will likely find stronger alternatives elsewhere.
Yet spending time with the QX80 reveals why it continues to attract loyal buyers. The naturally aspirated V8 remains wonderfully smooth, the ride quality prioritizes comfort over unnecessary sportiness, and the cabin provides the sort of relaxed long-distance experience that many newer vehicles seem to have forgotten. There is an honesty to the QX80 that feels increasingly rare in today’s market. It does not pretend to be something it isn’t.
Families looking for a comfortable three-row luxury SUV will appreciate the spacious seating, impressive highway refinement, and straightforward controls. Owners who tow boats, trailers, or recreational equipment will value the substantial towing capability. Buyers who simply want a traditional luxury SUV powered by a large-displacement V8 may find that the Infiniti offers one of the last opportunities to enjoy that experience without spending six-figure money.
That does not mean it is the right choice for everyone. The Cadillac Escalade feels newer. The Lincoln Navigator feels more sophisticated. The Genesis GV80 offers a more modern interior. Even the Jeep Grand Wagoneer pushes the segment forward in several areas. The Infiniti cannot realistically claim victory in every category.
What it can claim is character.
The QX80 remains one of the few luxury SUVs that still feels unapologetically old-school in the best possible sense. It prioritizes comfort, capability, simplicity, and V8 power over trends and marketing buzzwords. For buyers who value those qualities, the QX80 remains surprisingly easy to recommend despite its age.
Cardrav Verdict: 8.2/10
The 2023 Infiniti QX80 is no longer the most advanced luxury SUV in its class, but its comfortable cabin, refined V8 engine, impressive towing capability, and traditional luxury character help it remain a compelling option for buyers who appreciate substance more than novelty.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Infiniti QX80 too old compared with newer luxury SUVs?
Not necessarily. The QX80’s platform is undeniably older than many competitors, and that becomes apparent in areas such as infotainment technology and overall modernization. However, age also brings maturity. Infiniti has spent years refining the vehicle, resulting in excellent ride comfort, proven reliability, straightforward controls, and a driving experience that feels remarkably polished. Buyers seeking the newest technology may be disappointed, but those prioritizing comfort and proven engineering may view its age as an advantage rather than a weakness.
Is the Infiniti QX80’s 5.6-liter V8 still worth buying in 2023?
For many buyers, absolutely. The naturally aspirated V8 delivers a smoothness and predictability that many turbocharged alternatives struggle to replicate. Power arrives instantly, towing capability remains excellent, and the engine’s character suits the vehicle perfectly. The downside is fuel economy, which is significantly worse than many newer competitors. Buyers who value efficiency should look elsewhere, but buyers who appreciate traditional V8 performance will likely find the QX80 increasingly appealing as large naturally aspirated engines become rarer.
Should I buy the 2023 Infiniti QX80 or a Cadillac Escalade?
The answer depends on priorities. The Escalade offers more advanced technology, a more modern interior, and a stronger overall sense of innovation. The Infiniti counters with a lower price, simpler controls, a proven V8 powertrain, and a more traditional luxury-SUV personality. Buyers seeking the latest technology will likely prefer the Cadillac. Buyers who value comfort, familiarity, and value may find the Infiniti easier to justify.
Is the 2023 Infiniti QX80 a good family SUV?
Yes. Despite its age, the QX80 remains an excellent family vehicle. Three usable rows of seating, a comfortable ride, strong highway refinement, generous passenger space, and substantial towing capability make it highly practical for large families. While some rivals offer more cargo space or newer technology, the Infiniti continues to excel at transporting people comfortably over long distances.
Who should buy the 2023 Infiniti QX80 and who should skip it?
The ideal QX80 buyer is someone who appreciates traditional luxury, V8 power, long-distance comfort, and straightforward usability. Owners who tow regularly, travel frequently, or simply prefer large body-on-frame SUVs will likely enjoy what the Infiniti offers. Buyers who prioritize fuel economy, cutting-edge technology, sporty handling, or the most modern luxury experience should probably look toward alternatives such as the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, Genesis GV80, or BMW X7.
